Happy Birthday, America: “Swingtime Canteen” at Sharon Playhouse!

As America marks its 250th birthday, Sharon Playhouse presents Swingtime Canteen. More than a nostalgic review of World War II-era standards, the production reminds audiences why these songs mattered. They were more than entertainment—they were a source of comfort, resilience, and hope for a nation at war.

Swingtime Canteen by Linda Thorsen Bond, William Repicci, and Charles Busch opened on Broadway in 1995. Orchestrations and vocal arrangements were written by Bob McDowell with Special Material by Dick Gallagher. It is a musical set during World War II that follows an ensemble of women performing at a military canteen as they prepare to entertain American troops overseas. Filled with popular songs of the 1940s, the show recreates the spirit of USO performances while exploring the friendships, hopes, and uncertainties experienced on the home front. Through music, humor, and moments of reflection, Swingtime Canteen pays tribute to the entertainers who boosted morale during wartime and the generation whose resilience shaped American history.

Under the direction of Carl Andress, Sharon Playhouse’s production embraces the buoyant spirit of a USO-style performances while never losing sight of the realities that surrounded them. The familiar melodies, close harmonies, and infectious energy establish an atmosphere of celebration, but the evening's greatest strength lies in its willingness to acknowledge the uncertainty that defined the period.

[SPOILER ALERT]

That balance comes sharply into focus during the second act when a bomb scare abruptly interrupts the festivities. The moment is intentionally unsettling, replacing nostalgia with vulnerability and reminding the audience that the performers themselves were never insulated from the anxieties of wartime.

The ensemble cast performs with remarkable cohesion. Rich vocal harmonies by the five featured actresses, capture the unmistakable sound of the era while allowing each performer moments to establish an individual personality. Margaret Dudasik shines as Marian Ames. The poised and dependable leader of the group, Marian keeps the performers focused on their mission while providing a steady source of encouragement and support. Dadasik’s presence on stage is strong and she commands the crowd with her voice and staging. Sarah Beth Palmer’s Jo Sterling counters that energy with her witty, confident, and sharp sense of humor, while on drums during the musical numbers. Michelle Lemon portrays Lilly McBain with the appropriate amount of confidence and vulnerability as a veteran chorus girl and a bit of a wild card on stage who plays both saxophone and guitar during the show. Topeka Abotell, a wife and factory riveter, is played by Claire Marie Spencer with precise comedic timing and energy. Her two solo songs “His Rocking Horse Ran Away” and “My Shining Hour” showed the wide range of her abilities as a versatile character actress. Spencer also plays piano during the performance.

Within the ensemble, Lucy Rhodes (Kate Gammersfugel) delivers another memorable performance at Sharon Playhouse following her standout turn in Million Dollar Quartet (Dyanne) last summer. Rhodes again demonstrates an engaging stage presence, combining confident vocals, natural comic instincts, and an effortless rapport with both her castmates and the audience. She adds energy and fun to the production without ever pulling focus from its strong ensemble dynamic.

The ensemble’s musicianship is equally impressive, with each actress performing on an instrument (or two, as McBain does on both saxophone and guitar!) while moving effortlessly through songs and choreography that range from energetic ensemble movement to spirited tap routines. The five featured soloists are accompanied on stage by three other musicians: Mallory Kokus on clarinet and saxophone, Kim Bonsanti on trumpet, and Lauren Seery on double bass. These three ladies add additional layers to the full and robust melodies on stage.

Set design (Christopher and Justin Swader) supports the storytelling with restraint and authenticity. Warm lighting (Austin English) evokes the intimacy of a 1940s service club, while the period costumes and simple staging allow the performers to remain at the center of the experience. Costume design (Kathleen DeAngelis) gives each character a distinct visual identity while capturing the timeless elegance and glamour of Hollywood's “Golden Age,” reinforcing the production's nostalgic atmosphere. Additionally, wig and makeup design by Bobbie Zlotnik complements these choices with red vibrant lips for all but the innocent and naive Katie. Wigs were carefully styled by Zlotnik and complemented each character precisely with regards to style and color. The result is an environment that effectively transports audiences to another time.

Audience enthusiasm was evident from the opening moments and continued through the final curtain, culminating in a standing ovation. While the familiar score provides much of the evening's appeal, Swingtime Canteen succeeds because it offers more than a trip down memory lane. It celebrates the enduring ability of music to unite people during moments of uncertainty, making this production feel especially meaningful during America's semiquincentennial celebration.

In a season devoted to commemorating the nation's history, Sharon Playhouse delivers a production that entertains while quietly reminding audiences of the resilience that shaped it.

Swingtime Canteen runs from June 19 - July 5 at Sharon Playhouse. Tickets can be purchased at the box office or online at https://www.sharonplayhouse.org/swingtime-canteen